Hayley Berrisford

Hayley Berrisford is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Italy and Greece.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.

While living in Athens, I was determined to use what little Greek skills I had to communicate with the localed in our neighborhood of Pangrati. There was a small street very near our apartment and CYA with a produce shop, a grocery store, a butcher, and the most fantastic bakery in the world! I would go to these shops frequently, struggling to use my Greek. I would stumble through my greetings and ask for my things, all the while hoping they were understanding me. Each person I encountered was so excited that I was using Greek that they would praise me and they welcomed me with open arms. They all learned my name, knew I was from Minnesota, and smiled upon my arrival into their shops. They made me feel like I fit in to the culture of Athens and I learned so much from them.

Why did you choose the program in which you participated? 

I had wanted to do the Italy/Greece program since looking at attending St. Ben's. The program offers the opportunity to see two countries and study the rich history, art, and religious aspects of both. The program also offers the opportunity to travel to many different cities within the host countries, making the experience all the better.

Describe your overall study abroad experience.

I was exposed to the beauty and richness of both Italy and Greece in ways that a vacation would never allow. I learned that I am a much more capable and independent person than I ever thought I could be. My world view is completely changed because of this trip and I would go back in a heartbeat.

How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?

I look at the world with new eyes now. I am not so wrapped up in my own thing and in the business of America. I like to look at the world's news now. I have realized how little I knew about other countries, but how much they know about us. We are a very selfish country in that we truly think the world revolves around us. Unfortunately, many others think that as well, and we control many of their lives. I learned that I need to open my eyes to the world around me and appreciate all that the different culture fo the world have to offer.

What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?

I would tell future students to take any opportunity that is thrown their way. Learn the languages as much as you can. Meet the locals. Go on your own field trips in your host city. Do some research and learn about the country you are visiting before you go. Arrive with an open mind and heart and you will be surprised what you can learn about yourself and about the other students you are travelling with. Get to know your fellow travellers; they will be your family for three months. Have fun and make the most of your experience.